Can I keep chickens in Kennewick, WA?
Yes, with conditions — Kennewick allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 3 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited. (KMC 18.12.040, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 3 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop rules | No chicken-specific coop setback; cages, pens, and runs must be clean and sanitary and meet standard accessory-structure setbacks (5 ft side, 15 ft rear per Table 18.12.010 A.2). |
| Code section | KMC 18.12.040 |
Kennewick allows up to 3 chickens (no roosters) in R, HMU, and UMU districts, with a combined cap of 6 small animals across kinds. No permit required for up to 3; more allowed via Land Use Permit under KMC 18.42. Cages/pens/runs must be sanitary and meet standard accessory setbacks. Confirmed via official city FAQ and city code PDFs (codified through Ord. 26-6168, March 2026).
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Get the media kit →Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Kennewick?
Yes, with conditions — Kennewick allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (KMC 18.12.040).
How many chickens can I keep in Kennewick?
Up to 3 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Kennewick?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Kennewick.
Are roosters allowed in Kennewick?
No — roosters are prohibited in Kennewick.
What law covers backyard chickens in Kennewick?
KMC 18.12.040. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
KMC 18.12.040 — read the official code
“The Kennewick Municipal Code in 18.12.040 allows residents in R and HMU zoned districts to have up to 3 chickens (excluding roosters) under a specific set of guidelines provided in that section.” source
“In R, and HMU and UMU districts ... chickens (excluding roosters) and similar small animals may be kept so long as no more than three of each kind or a combined total of six are kept.” source
“An increase in the allowable number will be permitted upon issuance of a Land Use Permit in accord with Section 18.42.” source
Last verified June 11, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code.
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